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Local Events 2010

HAVE FUN!

We want you to have fun whilst at Hoe Grange, so we have provided you below with a comprehensive list of local Derbyshire events and activities to enjoy during your stay with us - you can browse by the month you are interested in. Whilst every effort is made to keep these details up to date, we recommend that if you are interested in a particular event you check the facts yourself before arrival. This will avoid any disappointment just in case the dates have altered.

If you find something exciting to do here in the Peak District that we have not thought of we would love to know the details so that we can add them to our events list for other people to enjoy.

Click on the event to go to the website.

There are a number of excellent Farmers Markets in the area selling local produce and home baked foods, for details and dates see www.local-farmers-markets.co.uk

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

January Event
Friday 1st January Mappleton - New Years Day Water Race and Bridge Jump A charity event where 10 teams of 3 people paddle down 1/2 a mile of the River Dove and then bravely jump 30 ft from the bridge into the ice cold water, before running 500 yards to the pub! An amazing family event and an excellent way to sober up after the excesses of New Year!
February
Monday 1st February to Sunday 28th Februaury

Snowdrops at Hopton Hall

near Carsington

Since 1996 the owners have gradually cleared and restored the woodland and its walks surrounding Hopton Hall. This has produced magical displays of over 75 species of Snowdrops and Aconites - the first welcome sights of spring.     £4.00 per person, children up to 16 yrs and parking free
Tuesday 16th February & Wednesday 17th February Ashbourne Shrovetide Football A frantic game of football through the streets of Ashbourne from kick off in Shawcroft Car park at 2 pm until well after dark. First recorded as long ago as 1682. Two teams, Up'ards born North of the River Henmore and Down'ards born South, battle to score by striking the ball 3 times against the old mill wheel goals, which are 3 miles apart at Clifton and Sturston Mill. The large hand sewn leather ball can be kicked, carried or thrown, but generally passes along in a "hug" invisible to the spectator. An experience not to be missed, but don't get too near the ball!
Tuesday 17th February Winster Pancake Races A long established local pancake race, which all began as harmless fun organised by the local Headteacher as a war time diversion for children. It is now a seriously lighthearted affair with secret training and stringent rules about the batter!
March

Sat & Sunday 6th & 7th March

Sunday 14th March

Midland Railway - Butterley

Mothering Day Special

Take the children on a day out with Thomas the Tank Engine and friends - plenty of other engines to see and there is a good play area to blow off steam!

Take mum out for a luchtime treat on the railway!

Saturday 6th March to Sunday 9th May

Roger Allen

Solo exhibition by local watercolour artist

Derbyshire - A Working Landscape

a solo exhibition of work by local water colour artist Roger Allen - amazingly detailed scenic views, definitely worth a visit! Buxton Museum and Art Gallery SK17 6DA

Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th March

Pavillion Gardens - Buxton

Art & Design Fair

A celebration of local arts and crafts from all over the Peak District, from painting, candle making, textiles, wood, ceramics, papercraft, glasswear and many more. Plenty to see and buy!
April
Easter

Midland Railway - Butterley

Easter Eggstravaganza

Plenty of Easter "egg"citment at this standard gauge line which has steam and diesel hauled passenger trains. The main site at Swanwick has a museum dedicated to the Midland Railway as well as a large collection of diesel and steam locomotives. If you enjoy trains it is a fabulous day out for the whole family with model and miniature railways, a farm and a country park as well as a host of other attractions.
Sunday 4th & Monday 5th April

Crich Tramway Village

1940's weekend

A weekend of activities themed around the war years with military vehicles, soldiers and civilians. Trams run to and fro every few minutes from the cobbles of the period street, past the original facades of historic buildings before heading up the valley to views that will take your breath away. Hand over the old penny you are given on entry and you are free to ride the trams all day. There is also an indoor exhibition hall, restoration workshop, outdoor play areas and a woodland walk and sculpture trail. They have facilities for offering wheelchair tram rides. A good family day out for all ages.
Tuesday 6th April Flagg Races The High Peak Hunt's point to point meeting is held on Easter Tuesday. Flagg Races were first held in 1892 and are now the only remaining point-to-point meeting to run the Hunt Members' race over natural hunting country, starting in Flagg village and finishing on the racecourse proper. First race starts at 12.30pm. New pony racing for 2010. An exciting day out, but wrap up warm!
Saturday 24th April to Sunday 9th May Peak District Walking Festival A two week festival of walking, which provides something for everyone, whether you're a casual ambler or a strenuous rambler! There are numerous guided and themed walks, including: historical, wildlife, ghost, literary & folk tale.
May
Sunday 2nd May Hoe Grange Roman and Railway Ramble with Farmhouse Cream Tea This year we are delighted to host a moderate 6 mile circular walk as part of the Peak District Walking Festival. Starting from Hoe Grange at 11am and led by High Peak Trail Ranger. Bring your own pack lunch. Followed by fabulous farmhouse cream tea - just £4 per head. Booking essential : contact Felicity on 01629 540262 or e-mail: info@hoegrangeholidays.co.uk
Sunday 2nd May

Bird watching for beginners

Carsington Water

Join Severn Trent Water Ranger for an introduction to watching and identifying birds on a gentle walk which is accessible to all. Children 13 years + welcome. Sorry, no dogs. Bring walking boots and suitable clothing, binoculars and notebook. Starting from Carsington Water Visitor Centre at 10am.
Monday 3rd May

Pavillion Gardens - Buxton

Plant & Gardening Fair

Showcasing plants, including plant care and unusual species, gardening equipment and furniture from local suppliers and companies specialising in garden design. A must for those with green fingers!
Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th May Crich Tramway Village Models Weekend Models Weekend
A Fantastic display of transport in miniature, including model trams, railways, road transport and Meccano. Includes Morris Minor event on 10th May.
Saturday 22nd May Macmillan Cancer Support sponsored walk at Carsington Water An 8 mile scenic walk around Carsington Water in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, starting at 10am from the visitor centre.
Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th May

Pavilion Gardens - Buxton

Annual Antiques Fair

If you are after antiques this is a must! One of the largest antique and collectors fairs in the area with absolutely everything you could imagine. Well worth a visit.
Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th May Chatsworth Nissan International Horse Trials Chatsworth provides a spectacular setting for it's International Horse Trials, with a cross country course running through the beautiful 1000-acre park on the banks of the river Derwent. This three phase event is extremely demanding, as both horse and rider have to show obedience and grace in the dressage phase, courage and athleticism across country and accuracy in show jumping. There are also pony club events, and displays.
Saturday 22nd May

White Peak Marathon

and White Peak Swift

This is an off road full marathon using the old railway lines which now form the White Peak Trails. Setting off from Thorpe Cloud at 11am along the Tissington Trail to Parsley Hay and then downhill along the High Peak Trail to finish at Cromford Meadows. For those who want to take a short cut the Swift Marathon goes from Friden direct to Cromford Meadows!
TBC

Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair

Bolsover Castle

Sample a taste of Derbyshire food and drink at this fantastic medieval castle, which dominates the countryside from its hilltop. Bolsover occupies the site of a medieval castle built by the Peverel family shortly after the Norman Conquest. Sir Charles Cavendish bought the old castle in 1612 and began work on his 'Little Castle' project. Despite its embattled appearance, his creation was not designed for defence, but for elegant living!
Thursday 13th May to Wednesday 19th May Tissington Well Dressings Tissington is known as the mother place of well dressing, with visitors arriving from all over the world to witness the annual well blessing ceremony on Ascension Day. Dressing consists of erecting boards covered in clay, into which thousands of flower petals are pressed to create a colourful tableaux of a biblical or topographical scene. It is probable that well dressing took place here in 1348, in thanksgiving for the village's escape from the Black Death, which the villagers attributed to the purity of its water.
TBC Brassington Village - A Summer Celebration A celebration of summer in  Brassington church with flowers and art exhibition by local artists - refreshments available, all welcome.
Open 11.00am to 5.00pm
There is also a concert of local talent on Saturday 23rd May at church at 7.30pm
Saturday 22nd to Tuesday 25th May Wirksworth Well Dressings Well dressing was first adopted in Wirksworth, to celebrate the arrival of piped water in the town, in 1827, when the taps were dressed. There is always a carnival spirit with the crowning of the Well Queen, who with her attendants forms part of a procession for the blessing of the wells, accompanied by a brass band. Also a chance to explore the maze of narrow streets and tiny alleyways, and to admire the historic buildings.

Sunday 23rd & Monday 24th May

Pavilion Gardens - Buxton

Art & Design Fair

A celebration of local arts and crafts from all over the Peak District, from painting, candle making, textiles, wood, ceramics, papercraft, glasswear and many more. Plenty to see and buy!
Monday 24th May Dovedale Fete A traditional country village fete with cakes, stalls, entertainments, maypole dancing, morris men, fair rides and much more. It is held in the picturesque village of Ilam from 12pm onwards. A good event for entertaining the children.
Saturday 29th to Monday 31st May Midland Railway - Butterley Take the children on a day out with Thomas the Tank Engine and friends - plenty of other engines to see and there is a good play area to blow off steam!
TBC

Bat Safari

Carsington Water

Join Derbyshire Bat Conservation Group and the Rangers for an evening stroll near part of the reservoir. Listen and look out for these unusual yet wonderful creatures of the night. Take your torch and meet at Millfields car park at 8.45pm, just £2.50 - booking essential.
June
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th June

Steam & Vintage Event

Belper

The event was first established in 1989 as part of the Belper Festival fortnight. The event has grown and is now firmly established as one of the largest steam fairs in the county. Fabulous for steam enthusiasts with hundreds of vintage vehicles, but also a good family day out with trade, craft and auto jumble stalls and arena events and street entertainers to keep children occupied.
Saturday 12th June Pipes in the Peaks A concert featuring the amazing Compton organ and the 17 piece Ockbrook Big Band, starring Christan Cartwright.
Friday 11th to Sunday 13th June

Download Music Festival

Donnington Park

A fairly new but huge music festival set over 3 days with superb artists. see website for further details.
Saturday 9th June

Kedleston Hall

Romeo & Juliette

Illyria perform Shakespeare's classic love story in the pleasure grounds. Take along your own summer picnic and seating, and enjoy a wonderful outdoor evening.
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th June Birchover Open Gardens You can wander around over 30 gardens in this picturesque village. There are stalls, cream teas and a flower festival at the church. Parking is free, but there is an admission charge of £2.50 per adult

Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th June

Sunday 20th June

Midland Railway - Butterley

FREE entry for disabled visitors and just half price for accompanying helpers. A great opportunity to view the amazing collecting of engines.

Father's Day lunch - treat you dad to an extra special day out at this fabulous railway centre

Sunday 13th June Pikehall Harness Racing Top class grass Harness Racing from 2pm. Spectators can be assured of a great day out at Pikehall Races, with trackside parking, bookmakers, refreshments, licensed bar, and children's attractions.
Friday 18th June to Sunday 4th July Ashbourne Arts Festival Ashbourne Arts Festival began in 2000 and now hosts 2 weeks of exciting events to entertain, educate and enjoy, starting with a procession through the town. From art, music, poetry recitals and painting workshops to operas and performing arts. Something for all the family.
Sunday 27th June

Derbyshire County Show

Elvaston Castle

A traditional County show near Borrowash, Derby. One of the main attractions this year is The Royal Artillery Motorcycle Display Team - The Flying Gunners will be performing the fastest high speed cross-overs you will see in the world! 
July
Sundays throughout July The Burrows Gardens The Burrows Gardens, a delightful corner of Derbyshire, with a collection of loved and cared for gardens, ideal for a gentle stroll, or a summer picnic. Round off your visit with tea and wonderful homemade cakes. Small parties welcome.
Saturday 10th July Frayed knot Band Local band Frayed Knot playing at Carsington Sailing Club in aid of Brassington Primary School. Tickets £7.50 on 01629 540212
Saturday 10th & Sunday11th July

Midland Railway - Butterley

Narrow Gauge Gala

A model enthusiats dream with plenty of real engines to see too and a good play area for the children to blow off steam!
Sunday 11th July Pikehall Harness Racing Top class grass Harness Racing from 2pm. Spectators can be assured of a great day out at Pikehall Races, with trackside parking, bookmakers, refreshments, licensed bar, and children's attractions.
Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July Secret Gardens of Winster Follow the garden trail around the picturesque streets and alleys of the historic Derbyshire village of Winster. While away the afternoon with jazz, a gnome hunt, craft stalls, and treat yourself to a cream tea.
Sunday 18th July Ashbourne Highland Gathering Every year since 1985, Ashbourne has been host to one of the largest highland gatherings outside Scotland. It consists of pipeband competitions, highland dancing, highland sports, tug of war and various other events.
Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th July The Great Dome Art Fair Quality art & craft work by 53 members of Peak District Products including paintings, jewellery, ceramics, glass, furniture, textiles, photography and lots more. Worth going just to visit this magnificent historic building in Buxton.
Wednesday 7th to Sunday 25th July Buxton Festival A fabulous feast for artists of all ages, with over 100 events in 2 weeks including opera, music and literature.
Wednesday 7th to Sunday 25th July Buxton Fringe Festival The Fringe began in 1980 to run concurrently with the world-renowned Buxton Festival, and many artists use it as a preview for Edinburgh Fringe Festival. It provides a showcase for performers of all kinds; dance, drama, music, poetry, comedy, film, exhibitions, magic and more.
Saturday 24th to Saturday 31st July Brassington Wakes Week and Carnival A traditional village carnival with fancy dress floats and an open air service with Brassington, Middleton and Wirksworth Brass Band. Followed by a week of fun packed activities, including Boules, BBQ, Car treasure hunt and the popular village jumble trail. Fun for all!
Saturday 31st July & Sunday 1st August Ecclesbourne Valley Railway A celebration of steam with engine Bellerophon (star of BBC TV's Cranford) joining newly restored resident locomotive Ferrybridge No 3 for a weekend of family fun
August
Saturday 30th July to Saturday 20th August

International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival

Buxton

Now in its 16th year the Festival runs for 3 weeks in the amazing Edwardian Buxton Opera House. The Festival aims to enhance the knowledge and understanding of Gilbert & Sullivan and ensure that this quintessentially British entertainment continues to flourish. The Fringe provides dawn till dusk G&S with over 70 events from masterclasses to performance and comedy - a fantastic choice for the G&S enthusiast.
Saturday 31st July & Sunday 1st August Cromford Steam Rally A traditional steam fair with steamers, historical motor vehicles, stationary engines, and a model marquee with miniature steam vehicles and engines. There are plenty of stalls, old time fair rides, and displays of motorcycles, commercial vehicles, military vehicles and wonderful old time organs. The tractor section will give you a unique insight into life on the farms in days gone by, and there are demonstrations of rural crafts.
Wednesday 4th & Thursday 5th August Bakewll Agricultural Show Bakewell Show is a celebration of all aspects of farming and rural life, from the best of British livestock to the latest business and technological innovations. It boasts the largest tented Show in the UK and attracts around 65,000 visitors over the two days. Plenty for everyone to see and do.
Wednesday 4th to Sunday 8th August

Midland Railway

Butterley

Take the children on a day out with Thomas the Tank Engine and friends - plenty of other engines to see and there is a good play area to blow off steam!
Saturday 7th August

Manifold Show

Ilam

A traditional country show with an excellent selection of animal and horse classes. Something for everyone to watch - a great family day out.
Saturday 21st August Ashbourne Agricultural Show An agricultural and country show including cattle, sheep, goats, horses and a cage bird and dog show. Ashbourne show is most reknown for its Shire horse classes. Lots of family entertainments, with craft tent, rural craft display, horticulture and handicrafts, and numerous stalls and trade stands.
Tuesday 24th & wednesday 25th August Dovedale Sheep Dog Trials A rare but fabulous sight to see the exceptionally well trained dogs driving in the sheep. There is some very keen competition over the 2 day event in fields at Blore, near Ilam.
Sunday 29th & Monday 30th August

Blackpool Extravaganza

Crich Tramway Village

A celebration of 125 years of Blackpool trams with hundreds of other tansport exhibits, stalls and models. Vehicle convoys parade down Tramway Street. Fairground rides and family entertainment.
September
Friday 4th to Sunday 6th September Chatsworth Country Fair Massed pipe and military bands, demonstrations and parades, hot air balloons, parachuting and over 300 varied trade stands and rural crafts make this a memorable event with something for everyone. Many of England's heritage of Country Sports and pastimes are on show including Armed service displays, horse shoeing, ferret racing, archery and sheep dog trials.
Saturday 4th September through to Saturday 30th October Matlock Bath Illuminations and Venetian Nights Throughout September and October the riverbanks are decorated by illuminated colourful displays and the cliffs above are floodlit, offering a truly memorable show.The Venetian Nights take place on Saturdays and Sundays, when decorated boats, with coloured lights twinkling, glide down the river. A magical experience enjoyed by people of all ages.
Sunday 5th to Sunday 26th September

Derby Festival & Derby Feste

An amazing festival centered around the new Quad art and media centre including street art, parade, workshops etc.
Friday 11th to Sunday 27th September Wirksworth Arts Festival Two wonderful weeks of art, music, theatre, film and dance. Something for everyone with exhibitions, workshops and demonstrations.
Saturday 18th Sept to Sunday 3rd Oct Derby Walking Festival The compact friendly city of Derby is steeped with fascinating history, a vibrant culture and provides an excellent setting for this urban walking festival.
Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th September

Midland Railway

Butterley

1940's weekend

A fabulous weekend of history stepping back in time to the 1940's, lots to see and do.
Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th September

Pavilion Gardens - Buxton

Art & Design Fair

A celebration of local arts and crafts from all over the Peak District, from painting, candle making, textiles, wood, ceramics, papercraft, glasswear and many more. Plenty to see and buy!
Sunday 19th September Ashbourne Half Marathon A half marathon, but don't be deceived it is a tough one with huge hills to test your stamina! However for those who want to take it easy there is an alternative 3 and half mile family fun run. If you want to enter into the spirit of the event get your fancy dress costume ready.
October
Wednesday 6th October Brailsford Ploughing Competition A very traditional ploughing match with both old fashioned ploughing with horses and the latest modern tractors. Quite a sight to watch. Includes hedgelaying and other traditional rural crafts.
Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th October

The Great Peak District Fair

Pavillion Gardens - Buxton

A celebration of Peak District produce and crafts from chefs at work in the demonstration kitchen cooking delicious recipes using local ingredients to demonstrations by local artists and craft workers. Admission is free with over 90 Exhibitors selling high quality food, arts & crafts produced in and around the Peak District. There is also a free children's' entertainment area and climbing wall and live music. Set in the Pavilion Gardens it is also close to an excellent park and children's play area.
Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st October World Heritage Site Discovery Days A festival of over 100 activities celebrating the significance of the Derwent Valley Mills and the heritage surrounding them. Events include guided walks, exhibitions, children's crafts, a horse drawn narrowboat and a chance for some hands on conservation work along the Cromford Canal.
Saturday 30th October

Starlight Halloween

Crich Tramway Museum

A Halloween spectacular with illuminations, witches, ghosts and trams in the dark. Spooky! Open until 9pm, last admission 6pm
Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st October

Wizards and Spookes

Midland Railway - Butterley

Spooky half term activities at this amazing railway centre
TBC The Great Peak District Food Fest A real feast for gourmets - a week-long celebration of the finest food and drink the Peak District has to offer, involving local producers. You are positively encouraged to sample the finest fare with special food-linked events and promotions including food tastings, banquets, guided walks, and beer festivals. Programme available at beginning of October.
November
TBC Alton Towers Firework Display A fantastic firework and lazer display, held within the theme park its self. You can enter the park in the late afternoon and take in a few rides before the big display. Contact Alton Towers for ticket details.
Monday 1st November to Thursday 23rd December

Chatsworth House

A Russian Christmas

A celebration of Christmas including decorations, seasonal food and drink, behind the scenes tours and farmyard Christmas craft activities.
Sunday 7th November Dovedale Dash The Dovedale Dash is a cross country race of 4 3/4 miles, run by about 1200 people of all abilities around the villages of Thorpe and Dovedale.The course is mainly along field paths and open ground in the valleys of the rivers Dove and Manifold, but there are short stretches along tarmac and some stony ground. One of the excitements is the crossing of the river Dove at the well known Stepping-Stones. The race starts at 11am, but go early to sign up if you want to take part.
Saturday 6th November

Firework Special

Midland Railway - Butterley

A sparkling spectacular firework display - good all round family fun - unless your toddlers don't like big noises.

Saturday 20th November to Friday 24th December

Santa Express

Midland Railway - Butterley

Santa Specials - Take the children on a magical train to see Santa and join in the festive fun
December
Sunday 5th to Sunday 12th December

Haddon Hall

Christmas Opening

All of the principal rooms, including the 17th Century Long Gallery, the medieval Banqueting Hall and the atmospheric Tudor Dining Room are decorated with natural foliage and trees from the Haddon Estate. A spectacular magical display.
Friday 10th December Ashbourne Town Late Night Christmas Shopping A real family Christmas atmosphere, with street entertainment, live music, Santa's grotto, hog roast and much more. All the shops are open till 9pm so there's time to buy some last minute Christmas presents.
TBC

Pipes in the Peak

Christmas Spectaculars

Let the Pipes in the Peaks get you into the festive spirit. Concerts celebrating Christmas with all your seasonal favourites. Includes Sherry and mince pies! Booking essential
Weekends throughout December from

Santa Express

Midland Railway - Butterley

Take the children on a magical train ride to see Santa and join in the festive fun.
Saturday 25th December

Boxing Day Raft Race

Matlock Bath

Traditionally for the past 44 years the Derbyshire Association of Sub Aqua Clubs have been running the annual raft event. Last year a total of £5825.88 was raised for the charities R.N.L.I, St Johns Ambulance' Hyperbaric unit and Derbyshire Air Ambulance.
One way of getting rid of the hangover - it certainly brings you round hitting the cold water of the river Derwent on a cold December morning. The 45 or so rafts set off at 10.00am down the river Derwent on the four mile course through Matlock, down to Matlock Bath, Past the famous Arkwright Mill, and finally onto the finish at Cromford Mill. By this time the rafters have encounter crowds encouraging them on, negotiated a weir and been pelted with flour bombs all in good fun!

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

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